Van Gaal, 62, is tipped to take charge of the English giants following the end of Netherlands' World Cup campaign in Brazil this summer. The Dutchman could become the first non-British or Irish manager ever appointed at Old Trafford and is favourite to replace David Moyes, who was sacked on April 22 after 296 days in charge.

Now, the former coach of Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Ajax has thrown his hat into the ring.

"I would love the job," the Netherlands boss told the BBC, speaking at the start of a three-day Dutch World Cup training camp. "I hope that I shall be the one. It's the biggest club in the world and it's a fantastic challenge."

He added: "You (the media) are thinking I'm the man but the most important thing is whether Manchester United are thinking that.''

Van Gaal also warned United that they face a fight to secure his services next season, in quotes reported by Voetbal International.

"There is no deal,'' he said. "There are newspapers saying that I've already signed, there are even names of assistants. Too bad it goes this way.

"There are several clubs interested in Louis van Gaal, we'll see what I choose to do and what choice that clubs are going to make. It's a process, so it goes with all clubs. And then I can say nothing about that process at this time.''

There was widespread expectation that Van Gaal, who has been in talks with United and has also been linked to Tottenham, would be confirmed as Moyes' successor on Wednesday but sources have told ESPN FC that no announcement is likely until after Sunday's game at Southampton.

Current player-coach Ryan Giggs said in his news conference after Tuesday's 3-1 win over Hull: "Nothing has changed since Saturday. It could be the next few days, it could be the next couple of weeks [when a manager is appointed]."